Project Alert holds workshop on violence against women with disability

Nigerians from various backgrounds midweek got a huge dose of education on violence against women with disabilities, as Project Alert, the Lagos-based NGO with zero-tolerance for gender-based violence held a three-day workshop at the WaterCress Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

The first day of the workshop had religious leaders in attendance and issues such as ’Understanding Gender-Based Violence and Disability: Myths and Facts’, were trashed. Executive Director, Project Alert, took time to explain to the audience what violence entails. Not surprisingly, the session was an eye opener to many participants.

Some women with disabilities also shared their experiences. Of note here are Rita Boyo, Assumpta and Yetunde Ayeni, women who, though, carry different forms of disabilities, remain strong and inspirational to so many out there.

The third session for the day got everyone brainstorming on the role of religious leaders and how they could help curb the unsavoury trend of violence against women with disabilities. At the third and final session, the religious leaders were made to proffer solutions.

Day Two witnessed the convening of members of the civil society organisations. Of note here was the keynote address by the Deputy General Manager of the Lagos State office of Disability Affairs, LASODA, Mr. Alejo Adegboyega. He took time to explain the functions of the organisation and its efforts so far, saying its doors are permanently open to members of the public.

Next, it was the turn of David Anyaele, executive director of Center for Citizens with Disabilities, CDC. Anyaele, a double amputee, who surprisingly is trudging on and even inspiring many, spoke extensively on the topic, ‘Understanding Disability: Meaning, Forms, Prevalence and Current Challenges.’

The third and final day witnessed sessions on ‘Women with Disabilities: Experience Sharing & Advocacy Efforts’ anchored by Tobiloba Ajayi and another on ‘Building Bridges on GBV & Women with Disabilities: Case Studies of Project Alert and KIND (Kudirat Initiative for Democracy).

Earlier in the month, an advertising agency, Up in The Sky Limited had flagged–off ChangeforChange Campaign, aimed at helping Project Alert generate funds to prosecute its war against gender-based violence. The campaign dangle discounts of up to 30% discounts on services and goods purchased by those who as much as donate N5,000 to the NGO’s cause against Gender-based violence.

Some of the outfits that have identified with the project are The WheatBaker Hotel, Tae Africa, Alamlbeleme Photography, Capelli Saloon, Savvy Chic Hub, Red Dish Chronicles, Rebecca Noff and Food Fusion.